2013 Porsche Boxster: Lighter, more muscular, more distinctive and more fuel-efficient
ATLANTA, January 12, 2012 – Never before in the history of the Porsche Boxster has a change of generation been so comprehensive. The open-top two-seat car receives an entirely new lightweight body and a completely revamped chassis. The new Boxster weighs less than the previous generation and rides on a longer wheelbase and a wider track. These new dimensions are coupled with larger wheels and a new electromechanical power steering system to significantly enhance the mid-engine sports car's driving dynamics. The new Boxster boasts superior performance and is also up to 15 percent more fuel-efficient than previous models on the European cycle.
The new Boxster benefits not only from an increased wheelbase but also shorter overhangs, while the windscreen has been shifted forward. The passengers are enclosed by the completely redesigned, fully electric top, which now dispenses with a convertible top compartment lid. The interior concept offers the occupants more space and reflects the new Porsche outline with a raked center console, which, originating with the Carrera GT ensures improved ergonomics in all models.
The new sports car generation makes its debut in the classic Porsche pairing of Boxster and Boxster S. Both models are powered by flat-six engines with direct fuel injection, the efficiency of which is further enhanced by electrical system recuperation, thermal management and start/stop function. The base model's new power unit delivers 265 hp from a 2.7 liter displacement – ten hp more than its larger displacement predecessor.
Technically, it is now based on the 3.4-liter engine of the Boxster S. This now delivers 315 hp, which is five hp more than before. Both models feature a manual six-speed gearbox as standard with the seven-speed Porsche Doppelkupplungsgetriebe (PDK) available as an option. Both sports cars achieve their best fuel consumption and acceleration performance with the PDK. With gear changes without interruption to the power flow, the Boxster sprints from zero to 60 mph in 5.4 seconds, the Boxster S in 4.7 seconds.
To enhance driving dynamics yet further, Porsche offers the Sport Chrono Package as an optional extra for the Boxster, featuring dynamic transmission mounts for the first time. Also new in the Boxster is Porsche Torque Vectoring (PTV) with a mechanical rear axle differential lock.
The new Boxster models are expected in U.S. showrooms in early summer 2012. The basic list price iwill be $49,500 for the Boxster and $60,900 for the Boxster S, not including a $950 destination charge.
Acura ILX Concept The Acura ILX Concept is the precursor to an all-new Acura luxury compact sedan scheduled for launch in Spring 2012. To be positioned as the gateway to the Acura brand, the ILX will feature three different powertrains, including Acura's first-ever gas-electric hybrid.
"First time luxury buyers place the highest value on exterior styling, affordability and environmental issues and that's a virtual definition of what we have created with the new Acura ILX," said Jon Ikeda, head of the Acura Design Studio. "The strategy behind this new model is to position ILX as the first opportunity for many young buyers to enter the luxury market."
Sleek, sporty and aerodynamically efficient, the exterior of the all-new Acura ILX combines luxury, performance and efficiency. A beautifully styled luxury sedan, the ILX Concept has a compact, yet formal proportion, targeting a very professional image. The Acura ILX delivers both, with a greenhouse that provides excellent visibility, an aerodynamic low and wide stance, the ILX is immediately recognizable as an Acura.
The lineup of ILX models will include an entry-level model powered by a 2.0-liter inline 4-cylinder engine; a high-performance model with a 2.4-liter inline 4-cylinder engine paired with a six-speed manual transmission; and a 1.5-liter gasoline-electric hybrid powertrain, Acura's first-ever hybrid offering.
The ILX will feature a high-quality, well-appointed interior that is smart, spacious and sporty. It will offer a number of new, high-value features, including a smart entry keyless access system and pushbutton start, along with Pandora internet radio interface and SMS text message function for smart connectivity with the world.
As with all Acura models, the ILX will have a long list of standard features, different trim levels (that will include a Technology Package), multiple transmission choices, and excellent standard safety features- including Acura's acclaimed Advanced Compatibility EngineeringTM body structure, front, side and side-curtain airbags, 4-channel anti-lock brakes and Vehicle Stability AssistTM (VSATM). Acura anticipates that the ILX will achieve top ratings in both NHTSA and IIHS crash safety testing.
The new ILX will be manufactured exclusively by Honda Manufacturing of Indiana, LLC, in its Greensburg, Ind. plant- one of only three plants in the world to receive J.D. Power and Associates' 2011 Platinum Award for outstanding quality.
SARENI United Presents the New GT Racing Car for the 2012 Season International GT sports will see a spectacular and powerful package in 2012. The German company SARENI United is now offering the newly designed Camaro GT. The US car will make an impression on racing tracks all around the world with its 800 Nm from up to 650 HP. The power is transmitted to the rear tyres from a 7.9 litre eight-cylinder (V8) by a newly designed HOLINGER gear box. The HOLINGER speed shift system with paddle shift on the steering wheel is extremely light, weighing only 37 kg, shifts gears very fast and is designed for high torque. The US engine developer KATECH received clear specifications: close-to-production, low cost, service performance of 10,000 km and maximum power.
The car was developed under the direction of Reiter Engineering in Germany. Founder and owner Hans Reiter got the idea when he went to the USA in 2010. "I was immediately fascinated by the design. The Camaro is a real men's car, a muscle car, it is designed to be on a race track", says Hans Reiter who founded SARENI United especially for this project.
A team of 12 developed the new car within one year. The FIA approved the start of the homologation in October 2010.
The first tests with the prototype went extremely well. The leading developer for SARENI United, Franz Russegger, was satisfied. "The Camaro is fast and the lap times are similar to the Lamborghini Gallardo. We had hoped for this result but there is still a lot of work to do".
Security is another special focus for the Camaro GT. In addition to the mandatory roll cage it provides a newly designed fuelling system which was developed by Krontec and will raise the bar with regard to security. Krontec will launch this system in 2012. There is also a big crush zone in the front and the rear of the car, conditioned by the outside dimensions.
"I am looking forward to the first race of the Camaro GT, it will be very exciting. The racing car is an option for a lot of teams because it provides an interesting cost structure. Uwe Geipel‘s team YACO will use two cars for the ADAC GT Masters races. Perhaps they can also compete in the GT3 European Championship. We also have a lot of serious requests from the GT4 and touring car series. Our idea of attracting new customers instead of taking away teams from other manufacturers has worked so far", says Hans Reiter happily.
The planned revision cycle for the engine and the gear box is at 5,000 km and both parts are expected to work for 10,000 km. New measurements and impressions after an intensive test programme with the experienced pilot Peter Kox (NLD) and Charlie Geipel (DEU) will result in further improvements before the first cars will be delivered.
The Camaro GT is a new and cost-effective GT racing car which will attract more teams. The developers continue working on the racing car to make it suitable for endurance races.
YACO Racing Team from Germany is the first team to order two Camaros which will be used in the ADAC GT Masters races in Germany in 2012. The cars will be delivered in March, in time for the debut of the Camaro GT in Oschersleben from April 12th - 14th.
Specifications: Engine: V8, 7,883 ccm cubic capacity, up to 650 HP Torque: > 800 Nm Drive: Rear wheel Gear box: Holinger shift speed system with rocker switch on the steering wheel Weight: 1,295 kg Wheel base: 2,886 mm
OnStar and Cadillac are showcasing their latest technologies at the 2012 Consumer Electronics Show from Jan. 10-13 in Las Vegas. The two brands will discuss several innovations during a press conference on Sunday, Jan. 8 at 7p.m. in the Casanova ballroom (Room 505) at the Venetian Hotel and Casino.
Cadillac will demonstrate CUE, a comprehensive in-vehicle experience that merges intuitive design with auto industry-first controls and commands for information and entertainment data. Cadillac will also discuss the research methods behind the creation of CUE.
OnStar will unveil evolutionary research in the 4G LTE cloud connected vehicle space, reveal future expansions in the mobile application arena, and make announcements about OnStar FMV, its aftermarket rearview mirror that contains all of OnStar’s key functions for older vehicles.
OnStar will also collaborate with the Verizon Wireless 4G LTE network to focus on the in-vehicle experience related to streaming content sharing for all vehicle occupants. The prototype applications demonstrated in a Chevrolet Volt research vehicle include:
Cloud-based streaming of entertainment and information content throughout the vehicle
Rear seat infotainment management
Video chat
Additionally, OnStar has built on its pioneering work with smart grid technology and home connectivity to develop in-vehicle applications centered on energy management:
OnStar RemoteLink
Real time Diagnostics and Eco Routing
Home Energy Management
Media attending the 2012 CES are invited to attend the press activities, and can RSVP for the Jan. 8 event here. Additionally, media and consumers can visit the OnStar booth (#1330 in the North Hall) for hands-on demonstrations of Cadillac CUE, OnStar’s mobile app and the OnStar 4G LTE research vehicle.
The all-new 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLLightweight, athletic, luxurious MONTVALE, NJ - The all-new 2013 SL continues a tradition that began 60 years ago. For six decades the letters "SL" have been synonymous with a blend of sport, style and comfort - infused with groundbreaking innovation. For the first time, the SL is being produced almost entirely from aluminum and weighs as much as 308 pounds less than its predecessor. Its highly rigid all-aluminum bodyshell provides the basis for agile, sporty handling that has been taken to an entirely new level, coupled with outstanding bodyroll and ride characteristics. Even better driving dynamics come courtesy of the new direct injection engine, which is more powerful and economical than the outgoing generation. Other new features include the unique FrontBass system, which turns the luxury sports car into a concert hall - with the top down or up - and the highly efficient MAGIC VISION CONTROL. The 2013 SL550 will be available in U.S. showrooms this spring.
Compared with its successful predecessor, the 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL offers considerably more comfort and athletic character, setting new standards in the luxury roadster class. This includes amazing everyday usability, making the SL the most versatile of all sports cars. In short, anyone talking about the new SL is surely talking about the ultimate in passionate, refined motoring.
Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars: "There are around 900 million cars in the world and thousands of models. But there is only a handful of automotive icons. Our SL is one of them: It has class, it has style, it is the ultimate in comfort and luxury. And it combines all that with an incredibly sporty and dynamic character. You would struggle to find a car that embodies Gottlieb Daimler's aspiration more perfectly than our new SL - the best or nothing."
Lighter and more rigid - sophisticated all-aluminum bodyshell
The 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL takes the meaning of the famous letters "SL" - sporty, lightweight - quite literally. Weight reduction across the board is one of the most outstanding design characteristics of the new SL, as was the case for its namesake, the original SL of 1952 with its lightweight tubular frame. For the first time, Mercedes-Benz has implemented an all-aluminum bodyshell in a series-production model. Only very few components are made from other materials. The designers used even lighter magnesium for the cover panel behind the fuel tank and roof. High-strength steel tubing is integrated into the A-pillars for added safety.
The new aluminum bodyshell weighs around 242 pounds less than it would using the steel technology of its predecessor. "The effect is as if a large passenger has stepped out of the car" says Dr. Thomas Rudlaff, responsible for the aluminum bodyshell at Mercedes-Benz. "The result is perceptible and measurable. Less weight means improved performance and efficiency. In other words, the driving pleasure increases and the environmental impact decreases."
In terms of rigidity, safety and comfort, the aluminum structure is superior to the previous model's steel construction. One contributing factor is its intelligent lightweight construction with components optimized for their specific task. As a result, diverse processes are used to make different kinds of aluminum depending on component use. The parts are made by chill casting or vacuum die casting, worked into extruded aluminum sections or into aluminum panels of varying thickness. The outcome - high rigidity and excellent safety combined with low resonance and vibrations.
The new SL is even more comfortable and has more assistance systems on-board than its predecessor, sacrificing some of the weight saved through the aluminum
bodyshell as a result. Nevertheless, the scales show some astonishing readings - the 2013 SL550 weighs around 275 pounds less than its predecessor. This is due to a host of other intelligent details that Mercedes-Benz has also implemented in the new SL in addition to the aluminum bodyshell.
Driving pleasure - powerful engine and agile suspension
Powerful acceleration, effortless at all speeds, nimble on winding roads - the new SL delivers outstanding driving pleasure. As well as a powerful engine, the SL550 boasts a fine suspension that is both sporty and comfortable, and also features intelligent lightweight construction. The steering knuckles and suspension arms on the front axle, for instance, are also made from aluminum to reduce the unsprung masses. The same applies to virtually all the suspension components on the rear axle.
The new SL is available with two different suspension systems - with the Agility Control Suspension as standard equipment. The ABC (Active Body Control) suspension system is available as an option.
Both suspension variants are combined with a new electromechanical Direct-Steer system featuring speed-sensitive power steering and a ratio that can be varied in accordance with steering wheel angle. This provides excellent directional stability and safety when traveling at highway speeds, and adds to the SL's agility. It also reduces the amount of steering effort required when parking and maneuvering.
The new V8 in the SL550 develops 429 hp from its displacement of 4663 cc, which is around 12 percent more than its predecessor despite some 0.8 liters less displacement. Fuel consumption has been reduced while at the same time the torque has increased from 391 lb-ft to 516 lb-ft - a gain of 32 percent. The engine features an ECO stop/start function as standard equipment, while the 7-Speed Driver-Adaptive automatic transmission has been optimized for fuel consumption and comfort. The fuel economy of the direct injection engine does not detract in any way from the roadster's sporty character. Quite the opposite in fact - the SL550 takes just 4.5 seconds from 0 to 60 mph - eight tenths less than the previous SL550.
Interior - aesthetic, stylish, sporty
The 2013 SL combines its finely honed profile with a luxurious feel. Premium materials, perfectly finished with great attention to detail define the style and character of the interior. Compared with its predecessor, the new-generation SL is much longer (+1.97 inches) and wider (+2.24 inches), providing more room for greater comfort in the interior, too. Shoulder room (+1.46 inches) and elbow room (+1.10 inches) have been increased, exceeding the norm for this class of vehicle. Clear lines create a coherent look & feel in this comfortable interior. A generous sweep of fine wood trim extends from the center console across the dashboard into the doors, creating a pleasant wrap-around effect. A choice of two wood trims is available. Perfectly in tune with the roadster's character, the interior combines the unpretentious atmosphere of a high-performance sports car with the comfortable, stylish ambience you might expect from a luxurious touring car.
Design - classic SL proportions
The designers have brought the latest generation of the SL to life with a firm foundation in tradition, but with new perspectives and visions. The result is a stylishly sporty and elegant luxury sports car with balanced proportions that are classic SL. The long hood gives way to a compact passenger compartment that is set well back. A wide, powerful rear end with a strong racing character provides the finishing touch. Just a few carefully drawn lines define the powerfully sculpted, yet calm surfaces along the flanks. Finely crafted details, a striking rear end plus ventilation grilles with chromed fins from the dynamic tradition of the Mercedes- Benz heritage evoke the SL legend.
An upright classic sports car radiator grille clearly identifies the new SL as a prestigious member of the current Mercedes-Benz sports car lineup. The centrally positioned star is a contemporary reinterpretation of the famous trademark, and now extends into the center section with its organically flowing contours.
Dynamically slanting headlamps set well to the outside frame the striking front end and give the new roadster its own unmistakable face. The Bi-xenon headlamps come with active curve illumination and corner illuminating lamps as a standard feature, as well as Adaptive Highbeam Assist. With different lighting functions tailored to typical driving and weather conditions and activated in accordance with the driving situation, they offer the driver a much better illuminated field of vision. The striking sidelights and the horizontal line of the daytime running lamps in the far ends of the bumper feature LED technology.
Retractable hard top - with optional MAGIC SKY CONTROL
The sixth generation of the SL also offers a retractable hard top that can be operated using a space-saving electrohydraulic mechanism, converting the SL from coupe to roadster and back again in a matter of seconds. In contrast to its predecessor, the new SL offers two versions of the retractable hard top - glass or the unique panoramic roof with MAGIC SKY CONTROL. The transparent roof switches between light and dark at the push of a button. In the light setting it is virtually transparent, offering an open-air experience even in cold weather. In its dark state the roof provides welcome shade and prevents the interior from heating up in bright sunlight. The frame of both versions is made from magnesium, reducing weight by around 13 pounds compared with the outgoing model, lowering the vehicle's center of gravity and delivering greater agility.
The engineers have refined the operating mechanism for the roof and trunk lid. It now takes less than 20 seconds to open or close the roof completely.
Aerodynamics - new standards
The design of the new SL is not only aesthetically beautiful, it also boasts outstanding aerodynamic characteristics, giving the roadster top marks in its segment in three crucial areas: • the lowest wind noise, virtually on par with a closed sedan; • the best comfort during open-air driving, meaning the roof can stay down even at high speed; • virtually no accumulation of dirt on the side windows. Two world premieres - FrontBass and MAGIC VISION CONTROL The 2013 SL remains true to its tradition as technological trendsetter with two innovations: • MAGIC VISION CONTROL is a new, intelligent and highly efficient wipe/wash system. The innovative wiper blade judiciously dispenses wash fluid just in front of the wiper blade via channels integrated into the blade - in both directions of travel. The result is no water splash on the windshield to disrupt driver visibility and a perfectly clean windshield. The water also stays on the windshield, with no risk of overspray into the passenger cabin when the roof is down. A fully heated wiper blade is included as standard equipment, preventing the build-up of snow and ice on the blade in winter. This heating function also allows warm water to be applied directly onto the windshield for the first time, even in cold temperatures. • Equally unique is the FrontBass system, which makes intelligent use of the Page 7 spaces in the aluminum structures forward of the footwell. These spaces function as resonating chambers for the woofers and mark the first time ever that a sound system has been integrated into the body-in-white. As a result, the new SL features clear, rich bass sounds that deliver a concert hall ambience even with the top down. The new layout has the added bonus of freeing up space in the doors and interior. Both innovations are part of the extensive standard equipment of the new SL.
HANDS-FREE ACCESS - swipe to open
The HANDS-FREE ACCESS system is another Mercedes-Benz innovation that provides easy, hands-free operation of the trunk lid. The driver simply moves their foot in the vicinity below the rear bumper. Mercedes-Benz is the only car maker to offer a system that not only automatically opens the trunk lid but closes it as well.
The safest roadster
The SL is the world's safest roadster, thanks to the collision-optimized aluminum structure, standard equipment that includes PRE-SAFE® and ATTENTION ASSIST, plus further assistance systems on the same high level as the S-Class. The rigid aluminum bodyshell forms a sturdy passenger compartment along with precisely defined deformation zones at the front and rear ends. The passenger compartment is protected in the event of the vehicle overturning by two roll-over bars and A- pillars made from a mix of steel and aluminum. The restraint systems including the two-stage driver and front passenger airbags have been further developed, while a head airbag covers the side impact area. An additional thorax airbag in the seat backrest protects the upper body in the event of a side impact. Another new feature is the crash-responsive NECK-PRO head restraints developed by Mercedes- Benz which are also standard equipment in the SL.
One safety highlight in the standard equipment package is the unrivalled anticipatory occupant protection system PRE-SAFE® developed by Mercedes-Benz. If the system detects the imminent threat of an accident, it reflexively activates precautionary protective measures for the vehicle occupants, ensuring that the seat belts and airbags are able to provide maximum protection during an impact.
Additional post-impact measures supplement the integral safety concept and facilitate rapid assistance. Regardless of the severity of the impact, the doors are automatically unlocked after an accident, the interior lighting is activated and the side windows lowered by 2 inches to ventilate the interior more effectively. The steering wheel also moves upward.
Standard - ATTENTION ASSIST and ADAPTIVE BRAKE
A unique combination of driver assistance systems in the new SL helps prevent accidents. These include the drowsiness detection system ATTENTION ASSIST and the ADAPTIVE BRAKE, both of which are standard equipment. The latter features ABS, acceleration skid control (ASR) and active yaw control, and offers comfort and convenience functions in addition to safety features.
PRE-SAFE® Brake - autonomous partial and emergency braking in response to the serious risk of a rear-end collision
Optional equipment includes DISTRONIC PLUS adaptive cruise control with PRE- SAFE® Brake, which is already well proven in other Mercedes-Benz models. The systems use radar sensors to detect the serious risk of a rear-end collision. The PRE- SAFE® Brake warns the driver and can initiate autonomous braking if the driver fails to react, thus either preventing the accident or at least mitigating its severity. PRE- SAFE® can also activate occupant protection measures.
Active Parking Assist - automatically maneuvers into a parking space Active Parking Assist is new in the SL. Using ultrasound sensors it can identify parking spaces and automatically steer the vehicle into the selected space.
Infotainment - COMAND with internet access COMAND with Internet access capabilities and DVD changer is standard equipment in the new SL. It provides Web browsing while the vehicle is stationary, along with access to Mercedes-Benz Apps - such as Google Local Search, Yelp and Facebook - with a paid subscription to Mercedes-Benz mbrace2 in-vehicle connected services after the complimentary trial period ends. There are also the options to send individual routes to the vehicle from Google Maps and destinations from iPhone® and Android® phones using the Mercedes-Benz mbrace Mobile App.
The COMAND system features a high-resolution 7-inch TFT color display (800 x 480 pixels) next to the instrument cluster. This screen arrangement helps to avoid driver distraction. The 2013 SL550 will be available in U.S. showrooms this spring.
To coincide with the launch of the 2013 SL, Mercedes-Benz will also be offering a special-edition model, the "Edition 1", for a limited period. The "Edition 1" is superbly equipped and comes standard with AMG 19-inch alloy wheels, designo exclusive leather with contrasting topstitching, AIRSCARF, the Harman/Kardon® Logic7® surround sound system and much more. The designo crystal silver magno special paintwork is available exclusively for the "Edition 1". Interior upholstery is designo classic red/black exclusive with designo black piano lacquer wood trim.
A concept vehicle revealing the styling direction of the next-generation Honda Accord Coupe will debut at the 2012 North American International Auto Show January 10, American Honda Motor Co., Inc., announced today.The Accord Coupe Concept will convey the dynamic and aggressive profile of the ninth-generation 2013 Honda Accord set to go on sale in the fall of 2012. John Mendel, American Honda executive vice president of sales, will introduce the concept vehicle at a press conference, which will also be broadcast live via webcast at http://hondanews.com/live/2012naias-honda (link will be live Jan. 10).
A leader in style, performance, safety, efficiency and value since the introduction of the first generation model in 1976, the Accord remains one of the best-selling cars in America. The 2012 Accord was recently named to Car and Driver Magazine's '10Best' list for a record 26th time and was ranked as having the highest initial quality in its segment in the J.D. Power and Associates 2011 Initial Quality Study (IQS). The introduction of the ninth-generation Accord marks 30 years of U.S. production of the model at the Marysville Auto Plant in Marysville, Ohio, the first Japanese car assembly plant in the U.S.
Two new Bentley Continental V8 models will be unveiled at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit on 9th January 2012.
The new 4.0 litre, twin turbocharged V8 Continental GT coupé and GTC convertible achieve exceptional standards for power-to-emissions in the high luxury sports car sector.
This remarkable, new Bentley V8 engine delivers maximum power of 500bhp (507PS/373Kw) at 6000 rev/min and an extraordinary peak torque of 660Nm (487 lb ft) which is available across virtually the entire rev range from 1700 to 5000 rev/min, providing exhilarating performance and effortless power delivery in the Bentley tradition. Combined with a new close-ratio 8-speed automatic transmission, this translates into a sub-5 second acceleration time for the 0-60 mph (0-100km/h) sprint and a top speed of over 180mph (290km/h).
At the same time, the new V8 Continental models achieve outstanding levels of fuel efficiency and CO2 emissions for the luxury performance sector and are capable of travelling over 500 miles (800km) on a single tank of fuel. Full and official figures will be released in early 2012.
The arrival of the new V8 Continental models fulfils Bentley's environmental commitment to produce a new powertrain that delivers a 40 per cent improvement in fuel efficiency and CO2 emissions.
The new V8 engine features variable displacement with a highly sophisticated engine management system, ensuring a seamless and imperceptible transition from V8 to V4 mode under light throttle load.
The high-technology V8 also features high pressure direct injection, low friction bearings, thermal management, energy recuperation via the charging system, and innovative turbo charger packaging for greater efficiency.
The instantly recognisable growl of the new 4.0 litre V8 engine sets it apart from its Bentley stablemates.
The new V8 engine will be available in two models; the Continental GT and the Continental GTC. Expressing their potent, muscular character, these models are distinguished by a black gloss matrix grille with chrome frame and centre bar, a red enamel Bentley 'B' badge, and a black matrix three-segment lower front bumper divided by distinctive body-coloured strakes.
At the rear, unique chromed 'figure eight' exhaust tailpipes, a dark lower valance and red enamel 'B' bootlid badge emphasise the sporty, contemporary identity of the new V8s.
Both models are specified with 20-inch alloy wheels as standard with an optional 21-inch six-spoke design which is available in dramatic Diamond Black (exclusive to the Continental V8) or Diamond Silver finishes.
Inside the cabin, an Eliade cloth headlining, new contemporary Dark Fiddleback Eucalyptus veneers, optional two-tone leather colour split and short centre console continue the fresh, sporting design theme.
The two new Continental models will be offered beneath the flagship 6.0 litre,12-cylinder engined Continental GT and GTC, which continue to excite customers with a combination of silken refinement and the ultimate power of the twin-turbocharged W12 Continental engine that, in its most potent form, delivers an astonishing 631bhp (640PS).
Both new models feature a state-of-the-art, all-wheel drive system employing an advanced Torsen differential and a 40:60 rear biased power split. This ensures safe yet dynamic sports car handling in all road conditions.
Since the launch of the original GT in 2003, the W12-engined Continental range has gone from strength to strength with over 50,000 sales worldwide, making Bentley's factory in Crewe, England, the largest producer of 12 cylinder engines in the world. The W12 story continues to unfold and remains the ultimate expression of Bentley's engineering strength.
Commenting on the launch of the new V8 Continental models, Wolfgang Dürheimer, Chairman and Chief Executive, Bentley Motors said:
"With the new 4.0 litre V8 engine we are widening the appeal of the latest generation of Continentals, introducing a completely new driving experience. The new engine will have all the exhilarating power, drama and performance you would expect from a V8 engine sporting the famous Bentley wings, effortlessly delivered with our characteristic 'wave of torque'. This is complemented by innovative powertrain technology that delivers exceptional fuel efficiency and emissions."
Moving elegance. The BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe. Munich. The presentation of the BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe sees BMW venturing into a new vehicle segment once again. The third model in the BMW 6 Series line-up follows in the tyre tracks of the Convertible and Coupe, and is the first four-door Coupe in the history of the brand. The athletic elegance of the car's design makes it a particularly handsome addition to the range. Powerful engines and sophisticated chassis technology combine to produce an impressively dynamic driving experience. And the BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe also makes its mark with exclusive equipment features and a level of practicality unmatched by its premium four-door Coupe rivals.
At a glance.BMW demonstrates its ongoing commitment to broadening the diversity of its model range with the presentation, for the first time, of a four-door Coupe based on the BMW 6 Series; BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe sets new benchmark in the top-class premium segment in terms of aesthetics, emotionality and modernity.
Unique combination of sporty driving pleasure, elegant design, exclusive interior ambience, travel comfort and practicality; the BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe displays an - in some areas - significant step forwards in terms of design harmony, performance, equipment, practicality and integration; high-quality interior with generous levels of space and impressive seating comfort; third rear seat (4+1-seater); length: 5,007 millimetres, wheelbase: 2,968 millimetres; split/folding rear seat backrests allow boot capacity to increase from 460 litres to 1,265 litres.
Building on the aesthetically pleasing styling of the BMW 6 Series, the design of the BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe showcases its distinctive character; strikingly low-slung appearance.
Front-end design points to BMW 6 Series identity, individual character embodied by model-specific electroplated bars between the air intake and foglamps; twin round headlights with three-dimensional light rings, optional adaptive LED headlights; distinctive silhouette with flowing Coupe-style roof line and elegant take on the Hofmeister kink, complete with "Gran Coupe" lettering on the C-pillar; eye-catching rear emphasises the width of the car; LED rear lights in an L-shape - like the BMW 6 Series Coupe and BMW 6 Series Convertible; full-length third brake light above the rear window.
Exclusively appointed interior with driver-focused cockpit; door panels flow into one another seamlessly, providing a harmonious connection all the way from the instrument panel to the rear compartment; flatscreen Control Display; comfort-oriented rear seat backrest angle; seating position slightly higher than in the BMW 6 Series Coupe and BMW 6 Series Convertible.
Engines with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology; BMW 640i Gran Coupe with six-cylinder in-line petrol engine (235 kW/320 hp), twin-scroll turbocharging, direct injection and VALVETRONIC, and BMW 640d Gran Coupe (230 kW/313 hp) with variable sequential turbocharging and common-rail direct injection available from launch; flagship BMW 650i Gran Coupe with new eight-cylinder engine (330 kW/450 hp), two turbochargers, direct injection and VALVETRONIC to be added to the line-up; all model variants fitted as standard with an eight-speed sports automatic transmission and Driving Experience Control switch; BMW EfficientDynamics measures unmatched in the segment - including Auto Start-Stop function and ECO PRO mode - come as standard with all engine variants.
State-of-the-art chassis technology including Electric Power Steering and Dynamic Damper Control as standard; Integral Active Steering and Adaptive Drive available as an option; BMW xDrive intelligent all-wheel drive available from launch of the BMW 650i Gran Coupe.
Intelligent lightweight design mirroring that of the BMW 6 Series Coupe and BMW 6 Series Convertible: aluminium doors with frameless side windows, aluminium bonnet, chassis technology including spring supports made largely from aluminium, thermoplastic front side panels, glass fibre composite boot lid.
High-quality and extensive standard equipment includes eight-speed sports automatic transmission, Auto Start-Stop function, Dynamic Damper Control, Servotronic, 18-inch light-alloy wheels, xenon headlights with LED daytime running light rings, cruise control with braking function, electrically operated, automatically folding and heated exterior mirrors, Dakota leather upholstery and heated front seats, electric seat adjustment with memory function for the driver and front passenger, 2-zone automatic climate control with extended features, automatically dimming exterior and rear-view mirrors, electric steering wheel adjustment, and the Radio Professional with HiFi loudspeaker system and USB audio interface.
Unrivalled range of BMW ConnectedDrive products, including BMW Parking Assistant, Speed Limit Info, camera-based Collision Warning with braking function (in conjunction with Active Cruise Control) and latest-generation BMW Head-Up Display; exclusive options list includes a Bang & Olufsen High-End Surround Sound System, comfort seats and sports seats, active seats, seat ventilation, Exclusive Nappa leather, ceramic applications, heated rear seats and 4-zone automatic climate control; extensive range of model-specific BMW Individual features and M Sport package available from launch.
Model variants: BMW 650i Gran Coupe (BMW 650i xDrive Gran Coupe) : V8 petrol engine, BMW TwinPower Turbo technology with two turbochargers and High Precision Direct Petrol Injection, VALVETRONIC. Displacement: 4,395 cc, output: 330 kW/450 hp at 5,500 - 6 000 rpm, max. torque: 650 Nm / 479 lb-ft at 2,000 - 4,500 rpm. Acceleration [0 - 100 km/h / 62 mph]: 4.6 seconds (4.5 seconds), top speed: 250 km/h /155 mph. Average fuel consumption*: 8.6 - 8.8 (9.2 - 9.4) litres per 100 kilometres / 32.1 - 32.9 (30.1 - 30.7) mpg imp, CO2 emissions*: 199 - 206 g/km (215 - 219 g/km), exhaust standard: EU5.
BMW 640i Gran Coupe: Six-cylinder in-line petrol engine, BMW TwinPower Turbo technology with twin-scroll turbocharging, High Precision Direct Petrol Injection and VALVETRONIC. Displacement: 2,979 cc, output: 235 kW/320 hp at 5,800 - 6 000 rpm, max. torque: 450 Nm (332 lb-ft) at 1,300 - 4,500 rpm. Acceleration [0 - 100 km/h / 62 mph]: 5.4 seconds, top speed: 250 km/h (155 mph). Average fuel consumption*: 7.7 - 7.9 litres per 100 kilometres (35.8 - 36.2 mpg imp), CO2 emissions*: 179 - 183 g/km, exhaust standard: EU5.
BMW 640d Gran Coupe: Six-cylinder in-line diesel engine, BMW TwinPower Turbo technology with two-stage turbocharging and common-rail direct injection. Displacement: 2,993 cc, output: 230 kW/313 hp at 4,400 rpm, max. torque: 630 Nm (465 lb-ft) at 1,500 - 2,500 rpm. Acceleration [0 - 100 km/h / 62 mph]: 5.4 seconds, top speed: 250 km/h (155 mph), Average fuel consumption*: 5.5 - 5.7 litres per 100 kilometres (49.6 - 50.4 mpg imp), CO2 emissions*: 146 - 149 g/km, exhaust standard: EU5.
